Timeless Etiquette for all Age Groups in this Digital Age

The loss of a loved one is a difficult time when emotions can run high. It’s important to treat the bereaved family with respect, including honoring their right to privacy. Your ‘need’ to share information is subservient to the family right to notify people as they see fit. In an age where mass communication can take place with a simple click on social media, it’s important to remember these points before sharing about a death publicly:

• If you hear of a death, do not post anything about it until you see a member of the immediate family and have their permission to share it on social media. You don’t want to be responsible for causing someone close to the deceased to learn about the passing online.
• If you are a member of the immediate family, we recommend making a list of all the people you want to be sure to tell personally about the loss. Only post about it after everyone on your list has been notified.
• Never pressure anyone who knew the deceased to post on social media if they are not ready.
• If you attend a funeral, it’s perfectly fine to let others know you’re attending the service on social media and express sympathy there to the family, as long as it is not a private ceremony. Do not take or share any photos or videos of a service, burial, or reception, unless you’ve received the family’s expressed permission.

You may also want to review information found in our Digital Afterlife Guide.